Got a driveway that’s looking a little rough around the edges? Cracks, stains, and general wear and tear can leave it looking worn out. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to replace the whole thing to get it back in shape. Resurfacing is a much easier and cheaper solution that will make your driveway look practically new.
Why Resurface a Driveway
Think about your driveway as the welcome mat to your home. You want it looking good, right? But over time, little cracks pop up, stains set in, and it starts looking a little worn out. Resurfacing gives you a way to fix those cosmetic issues without tearing everything up and starting over. Plus, it can help extend the life of your driveway!
Signs It’s Time to Resurface:
- Cracks less than a quarter-inch wide
- Fading or surface discoloration
- Minor wear from daily use
So, if you’ve got these issues, resurfacing is probably the way to go.
What to Know Before You Start
Inspect Your Driveway
Before you jump in, do a quick check. If you’ve got a few small cracks or surface wear, resurfacing will work great. But if your driveway has bigger issues—like deep cracks or large potholes—resurfacing might not cut it. In those cases, you’ll need to call in the pros.
Gather Your Tools and Materials
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Concrete resurfacer
- Trowel or squeegee
- Pressure washer
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
- A mixing paddle or drill attachment
Timing Matters!
Plan to do the job when the weather’s on your side. Dry days with temps between 50°F and 90°F are ideal. If it’s too hot, too cold, or rainy, you might end up with a less-than-perfect finish. Trust me, you’ll want to avoid that!
Step-by-Step Guide to Resurfacing a Concrete Driveway
Step 1: Clean
Start by giving your driveway a good scrub. A pressure washer will do the trick for blasting away dirt, grease, and any gunk that’s built up. Got stubborn stains? A degreaser will help. You want the surface as clean as possible so the resurfacer sticks properly.
Step 2: Fix the Cracks
If you’ve got any cracks wider than a quarter-inch, grab a patching compound and fill them in. Let the compound dry, and smooth it out before moving on. Smaller cracks? The resurfacer will take care of those.
Step 3: Mix It Up
Now it’s time to get the resurfacer ready. Follow the instructions on the bag (because every brand is a little different), and use a mixing paddle or drill attachment to stir it up. You want a smooth, lump-free consistency. One tip: work quickly—once mixed, the resurfacer will start to set pretty fast.
Step 4: Spread the Resurfacer
Start at the top of your driveway and work your way down. Use a long-handled squeegee or trowel to spread an even layer of resurfacer. Take your time—this is the part where patience pays off. Work in small sections to keep things smooth.
Step 5: Optional Texturing
If you want to add some texture (helpful if your driveway is on a slope), you can lightly drag a broom across the wet resurfacer. It gives it a nice, textured finish and helps with traction.
Step 6: Let It Cure
Now, let your driveway rest. It’ll need 24-48 hours to cure before you can walk on it. And for cars? Give it about a week before you park on your fresh surface. Be sure to check the instructions on your resurfacer for exact curing times.
Tips for a Long-Lasting Finish
Seal It for Protection
Once your driveway’s cured, consider sealing it. A good sealer protects it from water, oil, and other potential stains. It’s a small extra step that can make a big difference in the long run.
Maintenance Matters
To keep things looking fresh, clean your driveway regularly and reseal it every 2-3 years. Skip the harsh chemicals and de-icers—those can actually damage the surface over time.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Bad Weather Timing
Resurfacing when it’s too hot, cold, or wet can mess up the job.
Skipping Repairs
Don’t ignore cracks! If you skip the repairs, your resurfacer won’t go on smoothly.
Using the Wrong Product
Make sure you’re using a resurfacer that’s right for your climate and driveway type.
Estimated Costs
DIY Costs
Doing the work yourself? Expect to pay about $2 to $5 per square foot. You’ll need to budget for the resurfacer, tools, and any extras like patching compounds. Still, it’s a lot cheaper than hiring someone to do it!
Hiring a Pro
If you decide to call in the pros, you’re looking at a price range of $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the size of your driveway and how much damage there is.
Conclusion
Resurfacing your driveway is a great way to breathe new life into it without breaking the bank. We recommend hiring professionals as this will ensure your driveway will look good as new.